How can I repair my Craftsman circular saw model #315.27802.
It is getting really intermittent in starting when I pull the trigger switch. I havbe looked up the switch availablity on the Sears website and they no longer sell a repalcement switch. Could it be a brush?

RICH COSTELLO, April 2006

I have the same saw handed down from my Grandpa. I'm looking for cut gauge that slides in to adjust the width of your cut. And the related wing nut. Also the spring load for the base and the knob on the left side by the brushes.

Thanks in advance!

Greg, January 2013

I had a similar problem with the switch. It was pretty clear, in my case, that it was the switch because you could feel the difference in the trigger action.

After considerable research on the net, I found a replacement at http://store.eurtonelectric.com/powertoolswitches.aspx?page=2

The part number is 8632K16. The cost is $10.50 plus $10.75 shipping.

The new switch is a screw terminal type so you may have to strip back the leads a little more and curl the wire around each screw. Once installed the saw now works fine.

Dave C., July 2010

did you get an answer I'm having the same trouble with a circular saw I bought new in 1979. It NEEDs brushes I'm sure but I dont HAVE A CLUE WHERE TO GET THEM.

MY EMAIL IS BILLIEBOY942 at COX.NET 1/3/2010 8:13 pm EST

Bill, January 2010

I have the same model high-quality old Craftsman saw with similar symptoms. Found that the ball bearing at the end of the shaft was deteriorated. Sears has the bearing! Now I need to check the switch too.
Thanks for the tip on the switch!

Charlie C., August 2009

I had the exact same problem. I went to my local tool repair facility and asked for a generic/universal replacement switch. The woman looked at the switch and ordered one for only $15.83 !!!! I installed the switch and the saw works great! Check your local tool repair shop.. I went to :
Tremel Sales and Service
8411 West Becher Street
West Allis, WI 53227
part number 3607300007

captainobvious, May 2009

I have the same model saw. I purchased the saw when I was in high school which was back in the mid 60's so the saw is probably at least 45 years old. I check the Sears website and they still sell the brushes, brush holders and springs for this model. I don't know about the switch but there are certainly universal switches which will work.

Steam Guy

Steam Guy, December 2007

First check the switch. Be really careful and unplug the power cord from the wall. Take the handle apart and put a shorting wire across the switch. Make sure the blade is fully protected by the safety cover and plug saw into wall socket...if it is the switch then it should start and run ok. if it doesn't start it is probably the brushes or the armature...BE CAREFUL AND THINK TWICE BEFORE ACTING ONCE.

Paul, April 2007

It's most likely one or both of the brushes. They seem to dateriate with time. I'd also check for a broken brush spring and make sure there not getting hung up. Also, do you have any idea how old this model saw it? I was my deseaced grandfathers. Thanks.

philip, May 2006